The New Britain, Connecticut, community is mourning the passing of Dr. Richard L. Judd, President Emeritus of Central Connecticut State University and a pioneering figure in emergency medical services, who died on July 15, 2026, at the age of 89. His passing has prompted heartfelt tributes from the academic community, emergency medical professionals, and many whose lives were shaped by his decades of leadership and service.
Dr. Judd dedicated his life to education, public service, and the advancement of community-focused initiatives. He served as the 11th president of Central Connecticut State University from 1996 to 2004, where he played a key role in strengthening the institution’s academic programs and fostering meaningful connections between the university and the broader community. Even after his presidency, he remained closely connected to the university, earning lasting respect and admiration.
University President Zulma R. Toro shared condolences, remembering Dr. Judd as a visionary leader devoted to teaching, building, and giving back. Central Connecticut State University has announced that a celebration of life will be held in early September, with additional details to be shared in the coming weeks.
Beyond his accomplishments in higher education, Dr. Judd was widely recognized as a pioneer in emergency medical services. He was instrumental in the founding of New Britain EMS and played a significant role in advancing EMS education both in Connecticut and internationally. Holding Connecticut EMS Instructor License 0001, he also served as Dean of the Connecticut EMS Instructor Training Program, helping train generations of emergency medical professionals.
Throughout his career, Dr. Judd contributed extensively to EMS education through teaching, writing, and leadership. He served as a professor at the American College of Prehospital Medicine, participated as National Education Faculty for the American College of Surgeons’ Advanced Trauma Life Support program, and consulted with the Yale New Haven Health Office of Emergency Preparedness. He also chaired the Connecticut Emergency Medical Services Advisory Board, further shaping the development of emergency care systems.
His contributions were widely recognized, including the naming of Connecticut’s lifetime EMS achievement award in his honor—an enduring testament to his influence in the field. Colleagues and former students remember him as a dedicated educator, thoughtful mentor, and leader whose work continues to impact communities through the professionals he trained.
As news of his passing spreads, tributes continue to highlight his kindness, fairness, and unwavering commitment to improving the lives of others. Dr. Judd’s legacy will live on through the university he helped lead, the emergency medical systems he helped build, and the countless individuals inspired by his work.
Dr. Richard L. Judd will be remembered as a remarkable educator, community leader, and visionary. He will be deeply missed and forever honored for the lasting contributions he made to education and emergency medical services. May he rest in peace.
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